If a cemetery was not identified in a Last Will & Testament, search for one that best fits the needs of the deceased or the surviving family.

In general, there are four types to choose from:

• Public cemeteries -- open to residents of the community


• Religious cemeteries -- open to members of a specific faith


• Commercial cemeteries -- open to anyone


• National cemeteries -- open to military veterans and their dependents; learn more from the Department of Veterans Affairs Burial and Memorial Benefits

Cemetery plots range in cost, depending on their location and service amenities.

Additional fees that should be reviewed include, but are not limited to:

• Endowment Care -- fee for upkeep of a gravesite and cemetery grounds


• Opening / Closing Fee -- cost to dig a Grave and cover once the Casket is placed inside


• Marker -- a Headstone for the Grave that contains personal information of the deceased such as name, date of birth / death, and sometimes a personal message (note: these do not need to be purchased from a Funeral Home or Cemetery)


• Vault -- a structure that prevents the grave from sinking once the Casket decomposes